Inflammatory Biomarkers and Tinnitus in Older Adults

Tinnitus refers to a common disorder affecting older adults frequently. This condition can disturb mental health and psychological well-being and contribute to cognitive decline. Despite recent advances in research, its pathophysiology remains incompletely understood. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the sensation of tinnitus, its consequences on the quality of life of older adults, and its correlation with cytokine levels.

This cross-sectional study included a sample of 103 independent older adults. Information regarding clinical history, tinnitus, and hearing loss was obtained through interviews. Assessment of tinnitus intensity and resulting impairments was conducted using Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Tinnitus Handicap Index (THI), respectively. Subjects underwent audiological evaluation and were measured for inflammatory markers. Statistical analyses included chi-square, Mann-Whitney, and Kruskal-Wallis tests and calculation of the effect size (Φ).

The condition of older adults with tinnitus (51.5%) was associated with hearing loss and previous noise exposure. No differences were observed in the cytokines between groups with and without tinnitus (P > 0.05), whereas a difference was found in the interleukin-10 (IL-10) of the male group (P = 0.016; r = 0.69). In those with tinnitus, VAS had a median and (interquartile range) of 5 (2-7), and the values were 21 (10-38) for THI. In addition, VAS and minimum masking level exhibited a significant correlation with IL-6 (P = 0.018; rs = 0.335) and IL-2 (P = 0.035; rs = 0.299), respectively. Furthermore, the groups with intense and mild VAS presented different levels of tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) (P = 0.041; E2R = 0.12).

The results reveal an association between tinnitus and hearing loss and previous noise exposure. Moreover, increased sound-masking levels and VAS correlated with IL-2 and IL-6, respectively. TNF-α levels varied between the mild and intense VAS groups.